Last Updated on April 5, 2025 by Admin
Working in construction comes with inherent risks, but being aware and taking precautions can help keep you safe on the job site. In 2021 alone, there were over 69,200 recorded injuries among U.S. construction workers. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can avoid becoming one of them.
Craig Rosenbaum, an experienced construction accident lawyer in Brooklyn, provides tips and advice to minimize your risks for accidents and injuries at a construction site.
Table of Contents
Watch Your Step While Being in a Construction Site
Slip, trip, and fall incidents are a major cause of injuries in construction. Always be mindful of your footing and ensure walkways are clear of clutter and debris. Wear sturdy work boots with slip-resistant soles to prevent falls, especially in wet or muddy areas. Use designated walkways and stairs whenever possible. Don’t take shortcuts that could lead you through unstable ground or over loose materials.
According to U.S. Department of Labor statistics, over 40% of construction worker injuries result in days away from work to recover. A sprained ankle or back injury from a simple fall can put you off the job for weeks. Protect yourself by moving carefully and keeping work areas tidy.
Use Fall Protection While Being in a Construction Site
Falls from heights account for over a third of construction fatalities every year. OSHA cites failure to provide proper fall protection as the number one violation in the construction industry. Don’t rely on your employer alone to keep you safe from falls – take personal responsibility by always using the appropriate fall protection equipment when working at heights.
Protect Against Construction Site Noise Damage
Construction sites are filled with loud equipment and machinery that can lead to permanent hearing loss over time. Studies show 56% of construction workers suffer from hearing impairment by retirement age. Safeguard your hearing by wearing earplugs, earmuffs, or other hearing protection devices when operating or working near noisy equipment.
Watch for Moving Vehicles and Equipment on Construction Sites
From forklifts to cranes, many vehicles are in motion on construction sites. Always wear high visibility clothing so drivers and equipment operators can see you. Make eye contact with operators before walking in front of heavy machinery. Be aware of blind spots where you could be hidden from view. Never assume a driver sees you – wait for vehicles to pass completely before crossing.
Keep Emergency Aid Accessible in The Construction Site
Despite your best efforts, construction site mishaps can happen. Keep first aid kits stocked and accessible so aid can be rendered quickly in case of injury. Know where emergency eye wash stations and fire extinguishers are located before an urgent need arises. Have important emergency phone numbers saved in your cell phone for fast assistance if injuries occur?
Speak Up About Hazards in The Construction Site
If you notice defective equipment or other safety issues, notify your supervisor immediately. Don’t simply ignore hazards or assume that someone else will speak up. Raising concerns protects the safety of everyone on your crew. Under OSHA’s “Right to Know” standards, you have a right to understand risks and receive safety information pertinent to your job duties. Ask questions if certain procedures or chemical exposures seem unsafe to you.
No job is worth severe injury, illness, or loss of life. The annual costs of construction deaths, measured in lost wages, lost productivity, and pain and suffering, amount to over $5 billion. Yet many accidents can be prevented through proper safety protocols and vigilance in the work environment. Staying alert, following regulations, and using common-sense precautions goes a long way toward keeping yourself and your co-workers safe from harm.
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